Magic Johnson knows what a successful and well-run professional sports franchise should look like. During his playing career, Johnson played for the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won five NBA championships.
Johnson has also thrived in the business world, opening up numerous new businesses throughout the country. He’s also had success as a professional sports owner.
Johnson joined the Los Angeles Dodgers as a part owner in 2012. The Dodgers have been MLB’s best team for most of the last decade. He became part owner of the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks in 2014. The Sparks won a WNBA title. Johnson is also part owner of the Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer. LAFC won the MLS Cup in 2022.
So when Josh Harris asked Johnson if he wanted to be a part of his ownership team with the Commanders, Johnson asked Harris if he wanted to win. When Harris replied in the affirmative, Johnson quickly signed up. As he told Harris, “he invests to win — not for ego.”
Welcome to Washington, Magic.
After Harris and his ownership group were approved by NFL owners Thursday, they were in town Friday and met with employees. Washington’s social media team showed part of his speech, and one specific portion stood out.
“We want to be the best organization in the National Football League,” Johnson said. “And then we’re going to take it a step further — in sports.”
.@MagicJohnson spoke to the staff and his vision is clear pic.twitter.com/gEfSy8eabQ
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) July 22, 2023
Washington’s new ownership team has succeeded in business all around the world. Harris, Johnson, David Blitzer and Mark Ein have enjoyed success owning sports teams, too. This ownership group is full of brilliant and motivated businessmen looking to make the Commanders their most successful endeavor yet.
I wouldn’t bet against them.